A Word from the Pastor

June 16, 2023

As soon as we can get rid of June gloom, summer will move into full swing. We had a very successful pastoral year, especially regarding a return to full pastoral activities after a few years of necessary health restrictions. Our various organizations and ministries were able to hold most of the regular programs and activities to which we are accustomed. Social events, Bible studies, prayer groups, and much more enjoyed a more robust attendance. Happily, our parishioners responded with enthusiasm.

Our parish school had a successful year. Once again it operated at near capacity. Our dedicated teachers and staff provided a high-quality Catholic education for our students. Of particular note, this was an accreditation year for our school with the Western Catholic Educational Association. The visiting team that evaluated our school gave very high grades to every aspect of our program. They referred to St. Patrick’s as “a model school.” We will not need to have another self-study and accreditation visit for six years. Congratulations to all who prepared the study and welcomed the accreditation team.

Our parish faith formation programs also had a rebound year. Many young people returned to participation in our elementary and high school programs. Our excellent catechists prepared a large group of young people and their families for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. They also provided ongoing formation for young people in the other grades. Our Youth Ministry prepared a large group of young people for the Sacrament of Confirmation which was celebrated on May 5 by Cardinal McElroy. Special thanks to our Youth Ministry Core Team, a dedicated group of almost 30 young people who serve in a variety of leadership roles including being Junior Catechists. This is a fine example of peer ministry.

With the coming of summer, our schedules shift and we have the opportunity to spend more time relaxing and recreating with family and friends. I remember the words of Msgr. Ralph Miller, the principal of the high school I attended. At the end of each academic year, he would always say to us: “Now go and enjoy your vacation but don’t take a vacation from God.” Those were wise words from a very holy man. As we enter into “summer mode,” we need to make sure that time for God is a part of our changing routine. Certainly, we need to continue to participate in the Mass every weekend. Even if we are away from our home parish, it is almost always possible to find a Catholic Church. We can make the effort to find it. We also should make some time each day to spend time in prayer. “Checking in with God” every day is an important part of our ongoing relationship with our Creator and Friend.

I also take this opportunity to greet the many visitors and vacationers whom we will welcome to our church during the summer months. Our parish is known for its hospitality. We are eager to welcome all who join us for the celebration of the Eucharist.

Have a happy and blessed summer.

In one Heart,



Fr. Ron 

rbagley@stpatrickcarlsbad.com

Eucharistic Revival Corner

One of the goals of the yearlong Eucharistic Revival is to grow in our love for Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament. In addition to participating in the Mass regularly and receiving Holy Communion, another way to express our love for our Eucharistic Lord is to spend time in the church praying before the Blessed Sacrament. 

Our church is open every day (except for some holidays) from early morning until at least 6:00 pm. Jesus is present in the tabernacle and welcomes all visitors. Every Tuesday afternoon, from 2:00-6:00 pm the Blessed Sacrament is exposed on the altar for public adoration. Likewise, on the First Friday of each month, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament takes place from the end of the 8:00 am Mass until 10:00 am.

Whether the Blessed Sacrament is exposed or simply present in the tabernacle, it is the same Lord Jesus who welcomes you to pray.



Stop by and make a visit!

Peter’s Pence Collection

Every year a special collection is taken up across the world. It supports the charitable works of the Holy Father and is scheduled for the weekend of June 24-25. Please use the envelope provided in your packet or use online giving. Envelopes are also available at the doors of the church. Thank you for your generosity.

Happy Birthday, Fr. Bill!

June 17, 1943

80 years young!

Happy Birthday Fr. Ben

On June 12, our dear Fr. Ben Drapeau, CJM turned 90 years old.

In order to celebrate this very special occasion, our parish will host a cake and coffee social this Sunday June 18 following the 11:00 am Mass (at which Fr. Ben will preside). Immediately following the Mass, Fr. Ben will be present in the Parish Center. Come share some food and friendship with Fr. Ben. (He asks that no gifts be given to him.)

Annual Catholic Appeal

We are now well into the Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA). Our parish has a goal of $96,625.00. Up to this point our parishioners have donated or pledged $61,485.18. That means we still want to collect the balance of $35,139.82.

Please remember all the good things that ACA does. If you misplaced your brochure or did not receive one, they are available at the doors of the church and in the parish office. You can send your donation in or go online.



Thank you for all that you are doing to help those in need.

Cello Suite Played by Y0 Yo Man

Listen to this beautiful solo performance by the famous Yo-Yo Ma of JS Bach’s Cello Suite No.1 in G Major.

Sunday Collection for 6/11/2023

Envelope:        $6,081.00

Plate:                 $7,085.50

Online Giving:  $12,919.88

Total Collection: $26,086.38

  We are grateful for the generosity of all of our parishioners and visitors.

Catholic Trivia



"Catholic Trivia”... not because they are trivial but because these might be things that not everyone knows. Test your knowledge by reading the five questions, remember your answers (or jot them down), then click the link below to find the answers.

1. Which pope called for the Second Vatican Council?
2. Which pope finished the Second Vatican Council?
3. In what years did Vatican II begin and end?
4. The work of Vatican II was collected in a number of documents. How many documents did the Council Fathers vote on and approve?
5. When did the First Vatican Council occur?

Feel free to email Fr. Ron with ideas for future Catholic Trivia questions rbagley@stpatrickcarlsbad.com